Why Leadership?

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“Africa’s development challenge – be it governance, water and sanitation, education, health, energy, infrastructure, gender equality, trade and investment and usually, a combination of all these factors given that they are inextricably linked – has been attributed to one major factor: a lack of effective, cohesive and ethical leadership, across all levels and sectors of society.”

- Jay NaidooChairman of Global Alliance of Improved Nutrition and founding General Secretary of COSATU, South Africa’s largest trade union.

Africa’s Challenge

Against a backdrop of changing global power dynamics, ongoing financial uncertainty, environmental pressures and social change, AFLI believes that the most effective manner of creating more opportunities for the continent is through the development of African leaders. Africa faces the challenge of a population growth coupled with persistent poverty, such that 40% of the world’s people (4.1 billion) are expected to reside in Africa by 2100. While much of the continent is still developing (UNICEF Report, August 13, 2014)

Our Model

By nurturing and guiding the next generation of leaders – high-potential individuals who are expected to make a significant impact across the continent – AFLI is creating a network of alumni to create a depth of leadership that penetrates all sectors of society, across the entire continent. While the prestigious Archbishop Tutu Fellowship Programme targets only a limited number of nominated candidates annually, the Leadership For Change Programme offers a shorter-term intensive course to a greater cross-section of potential young leaders. Through these programmes, AFLI believes that leadership will become the indelible force that creates positive change for millions of African people. With more thoughtful and respectful leaders who demonstrate humility, an authentic connection with their followers, and consistent engagement with their communities, AFLI’s belief is that these individuals will have the most impact on many of Africa’s challenges.

AFLI focuses on the 25- to 40-year-old generation of emerging leaders on the continent – a demographically large percentage of Africa’s population – in whose hands lie the future of the continent. It welcomes participants who are dissatisfied with the status quo, individuals who are passionate about the continent, and leaders seeking to positively impact Africa’s future development. Through its programmes and its network of graduates, AFLI is addressing Africa’s leadership deficit by being community oriented and supporting those who understand the responsibilities of being compassionate and considerate leaders. Over the years, AFLI has produced dozens of Tutu Fellows, many of whom now hold influential positions in some of the highest levels of business, government and civil society in Africa and other continents around the world.